FAQs

Why do you have standard size charts?

Consistency

Sizing has such variances. In putting together our charts we compared several published sizing charts as well as many ready to wear sizing charts. In order to have consistency in all designs we publish, we created our own standard sizing charts.

Resource for new designers

As we wrote above, “standard” sizing charts run the gamut and can be a real challenge for a new designer. Our charts can be used as a guide for new designers.

Appropriate grading of sizes

We want to do our best to ensure that a size 48 bust fits as well as a size 32 bust. Most patterns are developed at a specific size and then graded to the other sizes. Grading — scaling a pattern to a variety of sizes — can be particularly difficult in the larger sizes. Why? The human body doesn’t gain the same amount of size in all areas. As an example, the shoulder-to-shoulder measurement of a 32 inch bust is 14 inches. Contrast that to a 40 inch bust, which has a shoulder-to-shoulder measurement of 16 inches. Although half the body increases by 4 inches, the shoulder width only increases by 2 inches. Similarly, if we compare armhole depth of these two sizes, they only differ by an inch.

Do I need to write my pattern in every size you include on the charts?

No, however, we do encourage you to write your pattern for as large a range of sizes as possible.

How much ease should I include?

That’s up to you! If you’re designing a close-fitting top, you’ll want little ease or even negative ease. If you’re designing outerwear, you’ll want several inches of ease. Similarly, the fiber content you use will impact the amount of ease you design into your knitwear. The stretch and drape of the fiber can play a big role in what you decide to include regarding ease.

Similarly, don’t forget to factor in the pre- and post-blocking measurements. The numbers we list on the following pages are finished measurements – so they’re post-blocking. You may also want to mention something about the growth of the garment after blocking it. Many garments grow considerably when wet, and then shrink back when dry. Superwash yarn is a great example of this.

Also, if you want to factor in putting something in the dryer, it would be great to include both set of measurements so people have a guide for how much something should shrink.

If you’re new to knitwear design and need some advice, just ask. We’re happy to help.